Final answer:
Nociceptors are activated by C. tissue damage and potentially damaging stimuli such as physical injuries, extreme temperatures, and chemical irritants like capsaicin.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stimuli That Activate Nociceptors
Nociceptors are specialized sensory receptors that detect signals of potential harm to the body, often resulting in the sensation of pain. These receptors are activated by certain types of physical, chemical, and thermal stimuli that reach a harmful threshold. Mechanical stimuli, such as cutting or crushing injuries, can activate nociceptors, as can extreme temperatures, either hot or cold, that may cause thermal burns or frostbite. Chemical stimuli, involving substances that can cause tissue damage or irritation, such as acids or the active compound capsaicin found in hot peppers, also stimulate nociceptors. This is why spicy foods produce a sensation of heat or pain, since capsaicin binds to the nociceptors designed to respond to high temperatures above 37°C. In addition, stressed or damaged tissues release chemicals that can further activate nociceptors.
The correct answer to the question 'What types of stimuli activate nociceptors?' is c. Tissue damage, potentially damaging stimuli.
SUM UP the final answer as points:
- Nociceptors respond to signals of potential harm that can result in pain.
- Physical, chemical, and thermal stimuli can activate nociceptors when they exceed harmful thresholds.
- Stimuli that may cause tissue damage, such as cutting, crushing, extreme temperatures, and irritating chemicals (like capsaicin), can stimulate nociceptors.